What’s all the fuss about VoLTE and WiFi Calling?

VoLTE:

Although it sounds complicated, VoLTE is simply ‘voice calls over 4G LTE network’ and 4G LTE is today’s fastest connection available for wireless networks. 4G means fourth generation of data technology for cellular networks (following 3G, third generation). LTE stands for Long-Term Evolution, a technical process for high-speed data for phones and other mobile devices. Combined, 4G and LTE create the fastest and highest quality connection available with the ability to download up to 100 megabits per second –very speedy! Read on to find out more details about how VoLTE works and what the benefits are…

Superior quality – easier to hear and be heard on calls.

The quality of voice calls transmitted over VoLTE is a big improvement on what we have heard previously. The connection captures sound waves twice as fast as other calls and by using a wider range of frequencies, its able to better match the range of pitch and tone in human speech. This allows for much more data to be transferred; three times more than 3G and five times more than 2G, creating a HD rich experience.

The HD voice also reduces background noise, so that, even on the busiest of streets the background noise is kept to a minimum, which makes the person’s voice ‘crystal-clear’, as if you are talking face-to-face.

Improved coverage and connectivity – faster and further reaching

VoLTE connects twice as fast and has a much greater range of coverage. This is largely down to the fact that 2G and 3G connections are still available when there isn’t a 4G connection available. Without the other connections, it is not always possible to make and receive calls; an issue that standard 4G users should be aware of (due to the varying frequencies).

VoLTE is dependent on networks, making it very far reaching. It is estimated that the 4G network will cover 95% of the UK by 2020 – excellent news for anyone with a 4G network, especially for those looking to upgrade to 4G LTE.

Faster speeds – multi-task with ease and speed

Due to the new ability to use data and mobile networks simultaneously, you can multi-task with apps and phone calls at a faster pace than ever. Now, when you get lost, you can phone a friend AND use Maps… at the same time! Most importantly, you can do this without compromising the quality of connection of your voice call or the speed of your Maps application. A whole new meaning to hands free… free to navigate!

Battery life – stay charged for longer

4G users could see an improvement in their battery life. Making calls on 4G requires a lot of switching of networks; on a call 4G has to switch to 2G or 3G and then back to 4G once the call had ended. This process of switching drains an excessive amount of battery. The VoLTE system is much more efficient in comparison – ideal for when you’re on the move and need to stay connected!

New and improved features – video calling and much more…

It’s never been easier to video call! When you have VoLTE you’re able to video call over mobile number (rather than through apps like facetime or skype). This means you can video call and receive video calls from anyone with any device (even between IPhone and Android) as long as they also have VoLTE, just as you would with a voice call.

There are also many new ideas and possibilities in the works for VoLTE. Just as video phone calls could become the ‘norm’, other new rituals may grow native to the dialler e.g. Rich Communication Services (or RCS’s) such as file transferring, real time language translation and video voicemail (as well as ideas for applications which haven’t even been conceived yet).

Wi-Fi Calling is a little different…

Not having signal is not an issue when you have Wi-Fi calling. Like VoLTE relies on having mobile signal, Wi-Fi Calling relies on being connected to Wi-Fi hotspot (wireless internet network) and having a compatible device.

The Benefits – simple and convenient

Once you have the latest Wi-Fi Calling software – it’s simple! You can call, text, and send picture messages just as normal whenever you see the Wi-Fi indicator in the top left of your screen. So in environments that rarely have mobile signal, such as a rural location or a basement flat, on the London Underground or inside an old building with thick walls, you can still make quality calls over the Wi-Fi network.

With Wi-Fi and 4G Calling, you’ll automatically switch seamlessly and uninterrupted between Wi-Fi Calling and 4G network coverage (whichever has the strongest connection) to continue your call on the move. However, it’s only available on particular devices and networks, so just contact your network provider to find out if you’re eligible to upgrade.